On March 10, Ambassador Zhang Yanling attended the handover ceremony of the sewing machines donated by All-China Women's Federation and signed the handover certificate with the representative of the government of Antigua and Barbuda, Hon. Maria Browne, MP, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Renewal. Officials from the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Social Transformation, Human Resource Development and The Blue Economy were also present.

Ambassador Zhang said that China and Antigua and Barbuda are sincere friends and cooperative partners to each other. Achieving gender equality and women's empowerment is a common pursuit of both countries. As COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage on, women face greater challenges in finding jobs and starting their own businesses. It is hoped that the sewing machines will assist the better empowerment of the Antiguan and Barbudan women. China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Antigua and Barbuda in promoting women's education and development.

On behalf of the government of Antigua and Barbuda, Hon.Maria Browne expressed gratitude for China's donation and China’s continuous assistance to the economic and social development of Antigua and Barbuda over the years. This timely donation of  sewing machines will boost the government’s efforts in providing sewing training across the country and promoting the cause of women empowerment and development.

The handover ceremony was reported by Antigua and Barbuda Broadcasting Services and major local newspapers.